Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is the ultimate fall dessert! This luxurious treat combines a creamy vanilla cinnamon cheesecake filling with layers of caramelized apples, all on a crisp graham cracker crust. Topped with spiced apples, a buttery oat crumble, and a drizzle of salted caramel sauce, this dessert offers everything you love about apple pie in cheesecake form. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive gathering, it will undoubtedly impress your guests!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The blend of sweet caramel, tart apples, and rich cheesecake makes for an unforgettable taste experience.
- Seasonal Delight: Ideal for fall gatherings and holidays, this cheesecake captures the essence of autumn.
- No Pie Crust Hassle: Enjoy all the flavors of apple pie without the fuss of making a traditional pie crust.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Many components can be prepared ahead of time, making it easier to serve at parties.
- Show-Stopping Presentation: The layers and toppings create an eye-catching dessert that will wow your friends and family.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools will make preparing your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake much easier. Make sure to gather the following equipment before you start baking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Saucepan
Importance of Each Tool
- Springform pan: Allows easy removal of the cheesecake without damaging its shape.
- Electric mixer: Ensures a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling by thoroughly beating the ingredients.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for holding and mixing different components without cross-contamination.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling
- 4 medium apples (588 grams sliced)
- 3 tbsp salted butter (42 grams)
- 1-2 tbsp apple cider
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed (73 grams)
- 1 and 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/8 tsp allspice
- 1-2 tsp lemon juice (to taste)
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 2 tsp water
For the Crust
- 3 cups cinnamon graham cracker crumbs (300 grams)
- 1/2 cup + 3 tbsp salted butter, melted (155 grams)
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 32 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature (use full-fat, block style)
- 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar (308 grams)
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream, at room temperature (240 grams)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
For the Topping
Crumble Topping
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (33 grams)
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned whole rolled oats(48 grams)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed (55 grams)
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup cold salted butter, cubed (4 tbsp, or 57 grams)
Salted Caramel Sauce
- Make according to my Salted Caramel Sauce Recipe.
For Final Assembly
- Additional apple filling prepared as above.
- A pinch of flaky sea salt for garnish.
How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Read through the recipe before you begin to ensure you have everything you need. You can break down tasks over multiple days if you want to make it easier!
Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
Peel and slice your apples between 1/4 and 1/2 inch thick.
– In a medium pan over medium-high heat, combine all apple filling ingredients.
– Cook for about 8-14 minutes until desired tenderness is reached.
– If needed, add more cider or water to keep things saucy.
– To thicken the mixture, stir together cornstarch and water in a small bowl until dissolved. Then add it to the pan over medium heat while stirring for about 30-60 seconds.
Step 3: Make the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
– Spray a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick spray, ensuring it’s securely fastened.
– Mix together all crust ingredients in a bowl and press into the bottom and slightly up the sides of your pan.
– Bake for about 10 minutes, then set aside while keeping your oven on.
Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Filling
Allow all cold ingredients to reach room temperature before starting.
– In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until creamy using an electric mixer (about 1-2 minutes).
– Gradually add sugar until well incorporated.
– Add eggs one at a time on medium speed until just incorporated.
– Finally, add vanilla extract, sour cream, and spices; mix until just combined.
Continue assembling according to instructions for subsequent steps!
How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
Serving your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake can elevate the dessert experience. Consider these delightful suggestions to enhance its presentation and flavor.
Classic Pairings
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that complements the rich cheesecake.
- Ice Cream: Serve with vanilla or caramel ice cream for a warm and cold contrast that enhances the flavors.
Garnishes
- Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and nutty flavor.
- Caramel Drizzle: A generous drizzle of salted caramel sauce will not only look beautiful but also intensify the dessert’s taste.
Festive Touches
- Cinnamon Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon on top adds a warm spice that ties in with the apple filling.
- Fresh Apples: Thinly sliced apples arranged decoratively around the cheesecake can add color and freshness.
How to Perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
Achieving the perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips for success.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all dairy products are at room temperature so they blend smoothly, preventing lumps.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix ingredients just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks in your cheesecake.
- Water Bath Method: Employ a water bath during baking to maintain moisture and achieve a creamy texture without cracks.
- Cool Gradually: Allow your cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven after baking; this helps prevent sudden temperature changes that cause cracking.
- Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 6 hours before serving. This time allows flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly.
Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
Pairing side dishes with your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake can enhance your dessert spread. Here are some excellent options.
- Spiced Cranberry Sauce: The tartness cuts through the sweetness of the cheesecake while adding a seasonal flair.
- Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta: This creamy Italian dessert provides a nice contrast in texture and flavor without overshadowing the cheesecake.
- Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of spiced pumpkin soup is comforting and complements fall flavors beautifully.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheese, such as brie or cheddar, creates an interesting savory balance alongside sweet desserts.
- Roasted Root Vegetables: Their earthy flavors work well with apple and caramel, making them a unique side dish choice.
- Salad with Pears and Walnuts: A fresh salad featuring pears, walnuts, and mixed greens adds brightness and crunch to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake, there are some common pitfalls that can affect your results. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Using cold cream cheese and eggs can lead to a lumpy filling. Always let them sit at room temperature before mixing.
- Overbaking the cheesecake: A perfectly baked cheesecake should have a slight wobble in the center. Keep an eye on it towards the end of baking to avoid dryness.
- Skipping the water bath: This is essential for preventing cracks. A water bath helps maintain moisture and temperature, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Not cooling properly: Allow your cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven. This helps prevent cracking and ensures even cooling throughout.
- Forgetting to thicken apple filling: If your apple filling is too runny, remember to use cornstarch mixed with water as a thickener before cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your salted caramel apple pie cheesecake covered in plastic wrap or in an airtight container.
- It will last for about 4-5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
- The cheesecake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap slices in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on low power for 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid. Warm slowly for about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake?
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is a delicious dessert combining creamy cheesecake with spiced apples and salted caramel sauce, all on a graham cracker crust.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare various components like the apple filling and crumble topping up to a day in advance, making it convenient for gatherings.
Is there a gluten-free version of Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
How do I customize my Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake?
You can add nuts like pecans or walnuts into the crumble or experiment with different spices like ginger for added flavor.
Final Thoughts
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is not only a showstopper but also incredibly versatile. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving or any special occasion, this delightful dessert will impress everyone. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or spices!
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is the ultimate indulgent dessert for fall! This delightful treat combines a rich vanilla cinnamon cheesecake filling with layers of caramelized apples, all resting on a buttery graham cracker crust. Topped with spiced apples, a crunchy oat crumble, and a generous drizzle of salted caramel sauce, this cheesecake captures the beloved flavors of apple pie in a luxurious cheesecake form. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive gathering, it’s sure to impress your guests and become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples
- 32 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream
- 3 cups cinnamon graham cracker crumbs
- 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- Salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by bringing dairy items to room temperature.
- Make the apple filling by cooking sliced apples with butter, sugar, and spices until tender. Thicken using cornstarch if necessary.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare the crust by mixing graham cracker crumbs with melted butter; press into a springform pan.
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, followed by sour cream and spices.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and bake for about 60 minutes or until set.
- Let cool gradually in the oven then refrigerate for at least six hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 98mg
